What is Critical Limb Ischemia?

Critical leg ischaemia is lack of blood flow that endangers all or part of the . It is typically caused by atherosclerosis (rarely vasculitis) and will commonly affect the lower limbs. Even with treatment, 25% of these patients die within a year and only half survive more than 5 years, mainly due to deaths from myocardial infarction and stroke. 

What are the symptoms of critical limb ischaemia?

The pain of severe limb ischaemia is felt in the toes and forefoot. During the day the patient may suffer short distance intermittent claudication. 

What are the consequences of critical limb ischaemia?

Without treatment, critical limb ischaemia will progress, causing worsening pain and debility. If the problem is left too late it can become impossible to salvage the leg and amputation may become the only way to save the patients life.

Angioplasty and/or stenting

Angioplasty may be used to open blockages by placing small balloons introduced with a catheter into an artery. The balloon is inflated and, as it inflates, it stretches and opens the artery for improved blood flow. A metallic device called a "stent" can then be inserted to maintain the expanded artery, thereby improving blood flow to the limb.

Bypass Surgery

Bypass for critical limb ischaemia typically involves using vein from the patients leg and using it to bypass the lengthy section of blocked arteries to carry blood into the lower leg and foot below the diseased vessels.